Chief data analysts are required to have a bachelor's degree, preferably in computer science or information science. Their job involves organizing and analyzing data for a business or industry. They determine trends and make predictions based on those trends. This can help a business determine which products to increase production of, or what to stock to meet consumer needs.

Essential Information

A chief data analyst, similar to a senior data analyst, organizes and analyzes data trends for an industry or business. A bachelor's degree in computer science in preferred, but some employers will hire someone with a degree in another field if the person has computer experience. Established analytical work experience is helpful for career advancement.

Chief Data Analyst Salary Information

Salaries for chief data analysts differ depending on industry, location, and experience. According to PayScale, senior data analysts working in the US in January 2016 earned between $52,576 and $105,213, with the median reported as $74,326. Those with 0-5 years of experience earned a median of $72,000, while those with 10-20 years' experience earned $83,000. Salary.com reported the same year that senior-level business data analysts earned a median annual salary of $86,789, noting that the middle half of such workers earned between $76,655 and $97,864 per year.

Career Info for a Chief Data Analyst

Chief Data Analyst Job Description

A chief data analyst is responsible for uncovering data patterns and trends, analyzing the trend, and making a prediction for the future based on that trend. The chief data analyst collaborates with a business team to provide informational presentations based on their data-trend findings that help to steer the decision-making process at a company. A person in this position typically reports to a senior data manager or project manager.

Job Requirements for a Chief Data Analyst

To qualify for a chief data analyst position, at least one year of experience is necessary. Advanced positions typically require at least 5 years of experience. Qualifications necessary for this job include knowledge of data process flows, query procedures, spreadsheet management, and data modeling. Some jobs may require developed experience with advanced data analysis tools, such as structure query language (SQL), a computer language used for data extraction and management.

Depending on the nature of the organization, advanced knowledge of multiple database environments, as well as database optimization skills may be required. These include Oracle, OLTP systems, and Microsoft SQL servers. Experience in advanced statistics, data-table creation and testing, and proven business results are also helpful.

Job Outlook for a Chief Data Analyst

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) includes chief data analysts among computer systems analysts. The BLS has projected that the employment of all levels of such analysts would grow by an approximated 21% between 2014 and 2024.

The 21% job growth projected from 2014-2024 is a much faster rate of job growth than average when compared to all occupations. Individuals with a degree in computer or information science should be prepared to compete for jobs as a chief data analyst, and can expect to find many opportunities in this field upon graduation.